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Learning Curves
Some Expected (and Unexpected) Things Parents Encounter During Baby's First Year
By Renee Roberson
"The most interesting toys are what Mommy and Daddy are playing with, like remotes, computers or magazines and books Mommy and Daddy haven't read yet," Nilles says.
Dr. Cowan explains that babies of different ages respond to entirely different objects as toys depending on what interests them and what milestone they have just achieved. "As they get older, children will know what is valued by you and will want to have for themselves precisely what you need – whether it be the car keys, the telephone, the keyboard or a hammer," she says.
To that end, Dr. Cowan stresses the importance of making sure your home is adequately baby-proofed so that babies don't accidentally get into medicine bottles or cleaning supplies that they see you using as they grow into toddlers.
Lastly, most parents agree that having children greatly changes their perception about relationships and child-rearing.
"Nothing in the world can prepare you for the reality of having a baby," Nilles says. "Sure, people can tell you this and that while you're pregnant, but until you have that first one, all bets are off. No matter how much reading or advice you receive, you're never prepared for the reality."
Jay Young from San Antonio, Texas, stresses the act of videotaping your baby often during that first year of life. "Pictures aren't enough," he says. "Videotape everything – all those little noises, all those scrunchy faces. Videotape year after year after year. You'll be so glad you did."
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